During the Berlin International Film Festival, the documentary “Shoah” by Claude Lanzmann, depicting the Holocaust, screened in honour of significant anniversaries: the 80th since Auschwitz’s liberation, the 40th anniversary of the film itself, and the centenary of Lanzmann’s birth. As festival director Tricia Tuttle, along with representatives from the Jewish Museum and Lanzmann’s widow, recognised these milestones, the atmosphere became deeply respectful, reflecting the film’s profound subject matter.
“Shoah” showcases numerous interviews with survivors, witnesses, and perpetrators, interwoven with harrowing footage from historic sites like Auschwitz. Its extraordinary length magnifies its impact, compelling audiences to confront human evil intertwined with extraordinary resilience that shines through the narratives shared by survivors.
However, this tribute exists amidst rising concerns that Germany’s approach to Holocaust remembrance potentially curtails artistic free speech. The Berlinale faced criticism last year when filmmakers expressing solidarity with Palestinians were condemned by officials, highlighting the tension between remembrance and freedom of expression.
The festival’s programming also featured the premiere of “All I Had Was Nothingness,” a documentary by Guillaume Ribot that pays homage to “Shoah,” reflecting the ongoing importance of these themes in contemporary discussions.
The Berlin International Film Festival honoured Claude Lanzmann’s documentary “Shoah” to mark important anniversaries related to the Holocaust. The screening, accompanied by remarks from notable figures, fostered a respectful atmosphere. However, it also sparked debate over the stifling potential of Holocaust remembrance on free artistic expression, as highlighted by previous criticisms faced by the festival.
The screening of “Shoah” at the Berlin International Film Festival serves as a poignant reminder of the Holocaust’s enduring legacy. As it marks significant anniversaries, the event also raises questions about the balance between commemoration and free speech in the arts. The discussions surrounding the festival highlight the ongoing complexities of remembering such profound historical atrocities while allowing diverse narratives to coexist.
Original Source: www.nytimes.com
